Fast Facts
Location
Commencing
- Online: January, May, September
- Townsville: January, May, September
- Cairns: January, May, September
- Brisbane: January, May, September
Fees
$15,250.00+
+estimated annual Commonwealth Supported Fee for a full-time study load
Plus Student Services and Amenities fee
Fee deferral and scholarships available if eligible
Currently displaying fees for 2025, which are subject to change in following years.
Duration
3 years full-time
Entry Requirements
ATAR 59
Recommended Knowledge
English (Units 3/4,C), Mathematical Methods (Units 3/4,C)
QTAC Codes
- 312029
- 312021
- 322021
- 372021
Course detail
From economics to financial management, the areas within commerce influence every industry. As you build your understanding of the foundational concepts of commerce, you’ll develop the ability to recognise financial patterns, trends in financial markets and the drivers of economic growth. With the option to specialise your studies in the area of your passion, you can graduate with confidence in your ability to apply your knowledge and skills to multiple industry contexts.
In the Bachelor of Commerce, you’ll study core subjects that will build your foundational knowledge of the concepts relevant to all areas of commerce. This commerce degree has several majors to choose from, with the option to select either a second major or elective subjects. Your selected major/s allow you to specialise in the areas that you want to pursue in your future career while electives allow you to broaden your knowledge and skills base.
No matter which major you choose, your studies in the Bachelor of Commerce will equip you to critically evaluate and communicate market insights. You’ll learn the importance of making data-driven decisions and develop skills in interpreting quantitative and qualitative data. As you study the key areas of commerce, you’ll develop an in-depth understanding of the factors that influence domestic and global economies and financial systems. Learn to effectively analyse market trends, the financial needs of professional and private clients, and ethical and sustainable methods of business.
Develop essential job-ready skills through the work integrated learning (WIL) capstone program. Within the program, you’ll work alongside leading commerce professionals and the network connections you’ll make have the potential to lead to further opportunities post-graduation.
Students in Townsville will have the opportunity to in the Townsville Chamber of Commerce — James Cook University Mentoring Program. In your final year, you can apply to join the program and be connected to an industry professional from the Townsville Chamber of Commerce (a JCU Alumni, where possible) who will mentor you through one-on-one sessions, virtual check-ins and mentoring events. You can look to your mentor for guidance relating to career planning, skill development, networking and job search techniques. You’ll build and strengthen your network and gain the skills and confidence necessary to excel.
Townsville-based students who have completed at least one year of their degree can also consider applying for an Australian Public Service Academy Campus position. With opportunities in the Digital and Data spheres, you can align your studies to part-time work, that may translate into a full-time job offer upon graduation. Explore the APS Data and Digital Programs page for more information.
Broaden your horizons and gain a global perspective by completing one semester at JCU Singapore or at one of our 52 partnering universities around the world.
Additional information
Study Bachelor of Commerce at JCU
One of the most popular programs at James Cook University is the Bachelor of Commerce. One aspect that sets this degree program apart from others is the designated Work Integrated Learning (WIL) program, which allows students to gain industry experience and create a network of contacts within the commerce sector. This may prove invaluable when it comes to getting your first industry job, or later along in your career when networking can bring you employment opportunities you never thought possible.
JCU’s commerce degree in Queensland is available at three campuses and online. Choose to study at Townsville, Cairns, Brisbane or online, and there are three intakes for entry every year for each – February, May and September meaning you can accelerate your way through your Bachelor of Commerce degree without wasting time.
Taking JCU’s Bachelor of Commerce in Queensland is a time commitment of three years full time (with part-time options also available).
How is JCU’s Bachelor Degree in Commerce Structured?
JCU’s Bachelor of Commerce is a versatile choice for undergraduates who do not want to limit themselves by specialising too soon. Students will get a comprehensive foundation in the theory of commerce and through these and other core subjects, they will find their degree can be applied to a wide range of industry jobs. There are several majors to choose from, with electives to ensure students keep their breadth of knowledge relevant for multiple sectors within the finance industry.
The key skills undergraduates will learn are critical thinking and analytical skills, ensuring that graduates can accurately analyse patterns and make data-driven decisions. The course will look at assessing qualitative and quantitative data and give students an in-depth understanding of the markets and how local and global economies can be influenced.
Theory is only half the battle — practical experience is what many firms are looking for, which is why JCU has implemented Work Integrated Learning, so that along with a Bachelor of Commerce, graduates can show real industry work experience. It is also worth mentioning that JCU has launched a special mentoring program for students in Townsville that links a student with an industry professional in the Townsville Chamber of Commerce.
For those who are hankering after some international experience, JCU has an exchange program, allowing Bachelor of Commerce undergraduates to study for one semester at JCU Singapore or at one of the 52 other universities partnered with James Cook University.
Career Opportunities with a Commerce Degree
Whether you aim to go into economics or whether international trade is much more your thing, your Bachelor degree in Commerce will have you well-prepared for the workplace. Visit the main course page to discover more about the majors and electives that are offered as part of this degree.
On the main course page, you will also find information on the prerequisites for entry onto this course, whether you are a local student or an international student. For those who may not be automatically eligible, there is also information on alternative pathways that JCU can offer to bridge the gap between the qualifications you hold and those you need. Visit the main course page now.
Hide additional information
Inherent requirements
Inherent requirements are the identified abilities, attributes, skills, and behaviours that must be demonstrated, during the learning experience, to successfully complete a course. These abilities, attributes, skills, and behaviours preserve the academic integrity of the University’s learning, assessment,and accreditation processes, and where applicable, meet the standards of a profession. For more information please review the inherent requirements for the Bachelor of Commerce.
Majors
You can choose from six majors. A major is your chosen area of specialisation. While all majors are available Online (or externally), not all majors are available face-to-face at all campuses. The handbook provides details about the subjects you can study within each major and the campus availability for each major.
Accounting
As an accountant, you will contribute to the most critical function of all businesses and organisations — their financial viability. You will learn how to recognise financial patterns and be an efficient problem solver for businesses in various industries.
Core subjects will give you foundational skills in decision making, analysis, and interpreting data for businesses. You will gain an in-depth understanding of financial management, company accounting, taxation, and auditing.
Banking and Finance
Study funds management, financial markets, and risk management. You will learn the different approaches to managing financial institutions, including commercial banks, rural cooperatives, and microfinance institutions.
Develop the skills to help businesses develop and thrive, whether they're government, non-government, private, or not-for-profit organisations. With an understanding of international finance and sustainable economic growth, employers will value your theoretical and practical knowledge.
Economics
Develop the skills to predict the behaviour of market participants, including governments, competing businesses, and consumers.
Explore drivers of economic growth and government policy options to shape that growth, as well as decision-making tools for managers and how to conduct cost-benefit analysis. You will gain knowledge of economics at the individual level by exploring consumer decision-making and the behavioural foundations of those decisions.
Financial Advising
Expand your decision making and analytical skills with Financial Advising through the Bachelor of Commerce at JCU. You’ll be equipped to recognize financial information and assist people to achieve their financial goals. Learn to identify potential issues for a client, viable investment opportunities, and practical strategies ensure their financial stability.
You can choose from a variety of specialisations and focuses as a financial advisor, giving you flexibility in a career with job security.
Financial Management
Understand different approaches to managing the finances of businesses effectively and efficiently. You will learn business modelling, investment portfolio management, financial risk management and multinational business finance.
With financial management skills that are transferable to most industries, you can forge your own career path. Combine this major with Accounting, Economics, or Business Intelligence and Information Systems to strengthen your skill set.
International Trade
Gain a global perspective and develop analytical, communication and critical thinking skills to pursue a career that crosses borders.
Build a strong understanding of the fundamentals of finance and international trade law. Take your place in the global boardroom with skills to explain strategic, interpersonal and psychological aspects of business negotiation. Learn how to network and influence stakeholders with creative and innovative thinking in the communication of complex business analyses.
In an increasingly globalised world, your ability to evaluate and analyse opportunities in international trade will make you a valued employee around the world.
This major is only offered at the Singapore campus.
Honours
Honours is available in each discipline as additional 24 credit points of study. Please refer to the Bachelor of Commerce (Honours) Handbook for eligibility information.
Gain an understanding of foundational concepts of commerce and pursue your passion in one or two key commerce areas. You can specialise in a range of areas, including economics, international trade and financial management.
Your skills are relevant to a large number of industries as a commerce graduate. Job opportunities depend on what major you decide to specialise in. You will have the ability to understand the importance of data-driven decision making - a quality highly valued by employers.
Depending on your chosen major(s), potential careers could include:
- Business manager
- Commercial and taxation law specialist
- Corporate financial manager
- Data analyst
- Economist
- Expert consultant
- Financial analyst
- Financial controller
- Foreign exchange trader
- Investment banker/manager
- Risk manager
- Stockbroker
Entry score threshold
These are the lowest adjusted scores we made an offer to in Semester 1, 2024. Entry scores are based on the most recent Semester 1 intake and are updated in June each year. Meeting the threshold doesn't guarantee admission.
ATAR/Selection Rank: 59.00
Entry score range
This table shows the range of entry scores for recent secondary students offered a place in the Bachelor of Commerce for Semester 1, 2024. The table includes offers deferred to Semester 1, 2024 which may have been assessed using the entry score threshold of an earlier year.
JCU Townsville
Without adjustments | With adjustments* | |
|---|---|---|
Highest | 96.95 | 99.95 |
Median | 72.70 | 77.90 |
Lowest | 55.30 | 59.30 |
JCU Cairns
Without adjustments | With adjustments* | |
|---|---|---|
Highest | <5 | <5 |
Median | <5 | <5 |
Lowest | <5 | <5 |
Brisbane
Without adjustments | With adjustments* | |
|---|---|---|
Highest | <5 | <5 |
Median | <5 | <5 |
Lowest | <5 | <5 |
External
Without adjustments | With adjustments* | |
|---|---|---|
Highest | <5 | <5 |
Median | <5 | <5 |
Lowest | <5 | <5 |
Notes:
<5 – indicates less than 5 OP/ATAR-based offers made.
* Refer to Adjustment Factors
Find out more about who you might study with by viewing this course’s student profile.
Adjustment factors
James Cook University applies bonus ranks under the Regional Preference Scheme and QTAC’s Educational Access Scheme (EAS). Learn more about JCU’s adjustment factors.
Estimated annual Commonwealth Supported fee: $AUD15,250.00
A Student Services and Amenities fee is payable per subject up to a maximum amount per year.
A variety of Scholarships are available to suit different student types.
JCU Prep provides a pathway into this course. Enrolling in this flexible program will enable you to meet entry requirements including subject pre-requisites and ATARs. Introductory academic subjects are also available to prepare you for tertiary study.
*Excludes entry into the Bachelor of Advanced Science, Bachelor of Dental Surgery, Bachelor of Laws, Bachelor of Marine Science, Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery, Bachelor of Nursing Science – Bachelor of Midwifery, Bachelor of Pharmacy (Honours), Bachelor of Physiotherapy, and Bachelor of Veterinary Science (Honours).
Note the course QTAC code for the location you've chosen. You'll need to enter it as part of your QTAC application.
Application dates vary between courses, whether they're delivered in semester, trimester or carousel study modes. View our Application due dates page for more information.
ATAR score is indicative only. Entry scores will be finalised in the major offer round.
Real stories
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Alumni
Siddarth Roche
Bachelor of Commerce (Honours)
I gained real-world connections and deep financial knowledge in this course, which provided the right formula for success in my job search. The small classes provide an excellent opportunity for stimulating discussions on global economic trends but also for pioneering research in the Honours component.
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Alumni
Suhithri Paranamanage
Bachelor of Commerce
I chose a regional university rather than a major city because the help you receive is personal and tailor-made for you. The lecturers know you by name and introduce you to their professional networks. For me, the biggest strength of the course is the Work Integrated Learning modules paired with the internships.
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Alumni
Gresham Congoo
Bachelor of Commerce, majoring in Accounting
I work for PwC’s Indigenous Consulting, which is a majority-owned and staffed Indigenous consulting business. It has offices all over Australia. It is partly owned by PwC, which is one of the largest professional services firms in the world. I’ve been with PwC’s Indigenous Consulting for just over five years now.
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Course Coordinator
Jodie Maxfield
Bachelor of Commerce
JCU’s Bachelor of Commerce offers practical, hands-on experience through work-integrated learning. We have amazing support mechanisms available, such as first year coordinators and mentors who will help students get started and succeed in their studies.
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Employer
Paul Sapelli
Director - Jessups (Audit and Assurance)
Thanks to JCU’s work-integrated learning program, we appreciate that students are work-ready by the time they graduate. And, being a local firm with offices in Cairns and Townsville, it makes perfect sense for us to source our audit graduates from JCU’s North Queensland campuses.